Spotify CEO Daniel Ek recently discussed the company’s plans to introduce a high-fidelity (hi-fi) audio streaming tier during an earnings call. This announcement comes after Spotify initially revealed its intention to launch Spotify HiFi in 2021, promising users the ability to upgrade to a “CD-quality, lossless audio format.” However, as we enter the middle of 2024, the tier has yet to be released.
During the call, Ek explained that the goal is to provide users with an enhanced version of Spotify. The new tier, priced at around $17 or $18 per month, will offer all the benefits of the current premium tier but with added features, increased control, and significantly higher audio quality. While Ek did not delve into specifics about the additional features, Bloomberg’s previous report aligns with his pricing estimate, stating that the premium plan will cost at least $5 more per month.
In addition to superior audio streaming, the deluxe tier is rumored to incorporate new playlist creation tools and other undisclosed features. Ek acknowledged that there is a substantial subset of Spotify’s 246 million subscribers who are passionate about music and are seeking even more flexibility in their music experience.
While Apple Music and Amazon Music have been offering lossless audio streaming for years without an additional charge, Spotify’s delay in rolling out this feature may be attributed to their desire to provide enough value to users to justify the extra cost. It is evident that Spotify wants to ensure that their hi-fi offering stands out and meets the expectations of music enthusiasts.
By introducing a hi-fi tier, Spotify aims to cater to the demand for higher-quality audio streaming and appeal to consumers who are willing to pay for an enhanced music experience. While it may have taken longer than anticipated, Spotify’s commitment to delivering a unique and feature-rich deluxe version demonstrates their determination to remain competitive in the streaming industry.